Shocking, but not really surprising. Misconduct in research and science is nothing new, especially in peer-review. However, that such misconduct takes on a more global scale now is worrying. I am glad that "Science" takes a stand on that. Maybe, just maybe, other journals will follow in publicly pointing out problems, because only this way solutions can be found.
"In that country, it appears having one's name attached to a research paper, matters more than actually conducting research." Well, of course! You get tenure for published research, not for unpublished results. I realize I'm very cynical, but I'm sure there are lots of assistant professors who would gladly pay to have their names added to a journal article.
Years ago a writer for a woodworking magazine of note visited a Chinese factory that produced table saws. Many companies here in the US sold the same saw, under different names and painted differently. Quality varied greatly.
The American writer marveled at the difference in quality the same factory allowed for the same design. Some saws had wobbly arbors; others ran true. Some cast iron tops were dead flat; others were warped.
The writer noted that in the US, quality was closely associated with the brand name, and that to keep the name pristine, quality had to be excellent across all products with that brand.
He was informed that it was different in China. A customer presented with a dozen saws in a store had to find the good one in the bunch, not rely on the name.
It's a cultural difference -- the same reason melamine could be substituted for protein in baby formula and pet food to pass a nutrition test.
Lying is okay if it advances your agenda or fortune. Sound familiar?
VendicarE
Nov 30, 2013